Assemblyman's Alternative Congestion Pricing Plan

Assemblyman Jim Brennan of Brooklyn, who is also running for city comptroller, introduced his own congestion pricing bill today. A spokesman, when asked, did not say whether he will support the plan as it is currently presented to lawmakers.

Brennan's new bill would ensure the program comes up for renewal in three years, and wouldn't allow the state to issue bonds against the program's future earning. Critics say allowing the bonds means the current congestion pricing plan wouldn't be temporary enough because it would last for the life of the bonds.

Also, Brennan wants the entire City Council to take another vote, this time specifically on the issue of residential parking permits. Lorrie Smith, a spokeswoman for Brennan said the current process--by which neighborhoods could opt into the residential parking permit program--might ultimately be "divisive, pitting one community against the next."

The rest of the comptroller field is split on congestion pricing. Melinda Katz and David Weprin, both of Brooklyn Queens, opposed the plan. David Yassky and likely candidate Simcha Felder, both of Brooklyn, support it, as does Adolfo Carrion of the Bronx. John Liu of Queens, who is yet another possible candidate, voted for it.